Welcome to the Sisters Rhythm and Brews Festival, a two-day event hosting Grammy recognized artists like John Mayall and Shemekia Copeland along with soul newcomers like Shanda and The Howlers with the backdrop of quaint Sisters, Oregon. Good tunes, beautiful scenery, and plenty of craft brews from local favorites. Get your dancing shoes ready to enjoy this line-up of Grammy nominees and award-winners:
“The Godfather of British Blues,” John Mayall has been in the blues scene since he founded his band, Mayall and the Bluesbreakers, in the 1960s. He’s played alongside musicians like Eric Clapton, Peter Green, and Jack Bruce. In 1993, Mayall was nominated for Best Contemporary Blues Album at the 36th Grammy Awards.
Today his talents continue beyond the blues as he uses his fame for the benefit of others. In 2005, all proceeds of his filmed birthday concert were given to UNICEF aid organization.
Named the Entertainer of the Year at the 2008 Blues Music Awards, Tommy Castro has become a notable talent in the world of deep, soulful blues musicians. Along with bassist Randy McDonald, keyboardist Michael Emerson, and drummer Bowen Brown, The Painkillers make up an inspiring sound sure to get you moving.
Born into a family of blues, Shemekia is the daughter of Texas blues artist, Johnny Copeland. She was raised in the traditions of gospel and soul music. She first performed at the age of ten at the Cotton Club in Harlem and has been pursuing a career in the blues ever since. In 2016, her album, Outskirts of Love, was nominated for a Grammy for Best Blues Album of the Year.
The grandson of highly regarded musician, R.L. Burnside and son of legendary drummer Calvin Jackson, Cedric Burnside has made his own name for himself in the world of blues. His intense rhythmic style has earned him the title as one of the best drummers in the world.
Beyond the kit, Burnside has begun establishing himself as a talented traditional blues guitarist. In 2015, his album, Descendants of Hill Country, earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Blues Album.
Pacific Northwest native, Curtis Salgado brings soul through powerful vocals and unforgettable harmonica melodies. After beginning his blues career through the Eugene bar scene, Salgado joined forces with good friend and blues guitarist, Robert Cray. Since joining forces Salgado has shared stages with blues giants like Muddy Waters, Bobby Bland, and Albert Collins. And in 2017, his talents were recognized at the Blues Music Awards, taking home three titles: Song of the Year for Walk a Mile in My Blues, Soul Blues Male Artist of the Year, and Soul Blues Award for his album The Beautiful Lowdown.
Fondly named, “The Total Package,” for his ability to deliver an energetic performance, powerful vocals and songwriting talents, Mr. Sipp will leave audiences wanting more. His talents are rooted in more than 20 years in the gospel music business. He has worked on countless award winning and Grammy nominated projects including those with bands like the Williams Brothers, True Believers, and Ronda Chambers.
With a sounds to appeal across generations and musical tastes, Sisters Rhythm and Brews Festival gives blues loyalists a chance to reminisce and newcomers to find their favorite sound all with an ice-cold beer in hand.
© 2020 Sisters Rhythm and Brews Festival